WEEK 53, 2020
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Traditional Culture Finding Light in the New Year Say no to a very dark winter
Let’s look for the light this winter instead of the darkness.
Jeff Minick Nor am I willing, as some do at this time New Year’s and us. of the year, to make prognostications about ere I am writing about the new One New future events except to say buckle up, be- A Bit of History year two weeks in advance of Year’s tradition cause 2021 will likely bring even greater Several ancient peoples, among them the the holiday, and as is the case challenges. Babylonians, Egyptians, Chinese, and Ro- with everyone else, each day will remain Besides, there’s my “ability” to peer into mans, celebrated a new year. Evan Andrews, brings a barrage of news about unaffected by an orbuculum—that’s a fancy name for a in his “5 Ancient New Year’s Celebrations” Hthe pandemic, the presidential elections, crystal ball—to discern the future. More (History.com), for example, writes of Chi- and all sorts of other crazy stories ranging the virus, and than 50 years ago, my roommate at Staunton nese New Year that during this 3,000-year- from Hunter Biden’s laptop to robots deliver- Military Academy returned from Christmas old holiday, “festivities traditionally last 15 ing food in Moscow. it deserves a break and played an album by some group days. … People clean their houses to rid Usually for an article such as this one, the called The Beatles. “Aww, they’ll never make them of bad luck, … [and] gather with rela- writer will review the past year, highlighting special place of it,” I said after listening for a few minutes. tives for a feast. … Each year is associated its main events and personalities. I doubt honor in this “Stick to the Beach Boys.” with one of 12 zodiacal animals: the rat, whether my Epoch Times readers need or Which is why I’ve never invested in the ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, goat, want a rehash of such an ugly year. Later, year of turmoil stock market. monkey, rooster, dog, and pig.” we’ll look at what we can take away from and fear. So what do I want to write about here? these troubled months. It’s pretty simple, really. Continued on Page 4 B22 | ARTS & CULTURE TUESDAY, DECEMBERWeek 29,53, 2020 TUESDAY,Week 53, 2020DECEMBER 29, 2020 ARTS & CULTURE |B3 3
LITERATURE HULTON ARCHIVE/GETTY IMAGES LORRAINE FERRIER/THE EPOCH TIMES your intellect, if not your whole character, will almost certainly correspond,” he said. An English Gentleman’s Simply put: “We are what we eat” could easily extend to “We are what we speak.” Quiller-Couch explains that the best Wisdom ‘On the Art of practice in writing is to use the “active verb and the concrete noun.” He cites Shake- speare as an exemplar: “I wager you that no writer of English so constantly chooses Writing’ and More the concrete word, in phrase after phrase forcing you to touch and see.” If, in any of your communication you LORRAINE FERRIER by harking back to bathe in those native— see extra ornamentation, here’s Quiller- yes, native—Mediterranean springs.” My fortuitous thrift- Couch’s famous writing advice: “When- ast year, while thumbing through Quiller-Couch believed that all literature, shop find: A pre-loved ever you feel an impulse to perpetrate a books in my local thrift shop, I whether consciously or not, harked back paperback of “On the Art piece of exceptionally fine writing, obey stumbled upon an intriguing to the original great artists, the ancient of Writing” by Sir Arthur it—whole-heartedly—and delete it before book called “On the Art of Writ- Greeks and Romans. And that literature Quiller-Couch. sending your manuscript to press. Murder Behind the ing” by Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch. could only grow by honoring the past mas- your darlings.” LIt’s a simple paperback published in 1946. ters: “I think for example, that if we studied (The book was first published in 1916.) to write verse that could really be sung, or Write Nobly The book is a series of lectures that if we were more studious to write prose When Quiller-Couch lectured on Feb. 12, Subscription Quiller-Couch presented to students at that could be read aloud with pleasure to 1913, Captain Robert Falcon Scott and his Cambridge University between 1913 and the ear, we should be opening the pores to team were courageously conquering the 1914, when he was the King Edward VII the ancient sap; since the roots are always South Pole. A newswire on the day of the Your subscription will not only provide you with Professor of English Literature. the roots, and we can only reinvigorate our lecture announced Captain Lawrence Ed- accurate news and features, but also contribute It is one in a series of 20 Guild Books pub- growth through them.” ward Grace “Titus” Oates’s death. to the revival of American journalism and help lished in 1946 by The British Publishers “From the records found in the tent Guild, as stated on the book’s back cover. Great Art Breeds New Great Art where the bodies were discovered it ap- safeguard our freedoms for future generations. The Guild comprised 26 of the UK’s leading To illustrate why his students needed to peared that Captain Oates’s feet and hands publishers who, for the Guild Book series, study great artists, Quiller-Couch quotes LORRAINE FERRIER/THE EPOCH TIMES were badly frost-bitten, and although he We aim to tell you what we see, not how to think; we chose outstanding books for the public to the Royal Academy of Art president, Sir struggled on heroically, his comrades purchase at a low price. Joshua Reynolds. “The more extensive, knew on March 16 that his end was ap- strive to deliver you a factual picture of reality that Published just after the war when print- therefore, your acquaintance is with the proaching. He had borne intense suffering lets you form your own opinions. ers were short-staffed and paper ration- works of those who have excelled, the more for weeks without complaint, and he did ing was still in force, the book felt ever the extensive will be your powers of invention.” not give up hope until the very end. more precious to me. Our creativity is sparked when we study “He was a brave soul. He slept through We believe that we live in truly epochal times, where I was looking forward to discovering and familiarize ourselves with the best of the night hoping not to wake; but he awoke the faithful representation of our current events what treasures my Quiller-Couch thrift- any given field. The three best texts for in the morning. won’t just be important for the people of today, but shop find would reveal. Often, when I re- teaching English literature, according to “It was blowing a blizzard. Oates said: ‘I search an art article, I’ll look at old books Quiller-Couch, are the Bible (Cambridge’s am just going outside, and I may be some also for the generations to come. The records we from the 18th and 19th centuries to under- authorized version), and those of Homer time.’ He went out into the blizzard, and keep now will directly inform the foundations of the stand a subject. For me, the almost roman- and Shakespeare. He says that Homer we have not seen him since. history they’ll learn and the values they’ll cherish— tic language in those books seems to hold stands above them all. “We knew that Oates was walking to his a certain reverence for the arts, and they Sir Arthur Thomas Quiller-Couch (1863–1944), circa 1910. English man of letters, professor of “On the Art of Writing” by death, but though we tried to dissuade and this knowledge is what drives us. are untainted by Marxist doctrines that Understand Your Purpose English literature at Cambridge University from 1912, edited the “Oxford Book of English Verse” Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch him, we knew it was the act of a brave man are too often found hidden in art literature “For while the ways of art are hard at the 1900; “Oxford Book of Ballads” 1910; “Oxford Book of English Prose” 1925; wrote stories of was one of only 20 Guild and an English gentleman.” Cornwall and of the sea including “Lady Good for Nothing” 1910; “Q’s Mystery Stories” 1937; and Books published in 1946, Learn more at from the 1960s on. best, they will break you if you go unsus- criticism “The Poet as Citizen” 1934. as outstanding literature, The news acted as a solemn reminder. tained by belief in what you are trying to after the war. When a writer commits someone’s sto- EpochSubscription.com A Gentleman’s Love of Great Literature do,” Quiller-Couch said. ry to paper, there’s a real responsibility “Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch of Fowey who as This applies to all our endeavors. Al- applies not just to writing but also when nest. As Quiller-Couch says: “In literature to honor both the subject and the reader. author, critic, and anthologist kindled in though wandering around may be exciting speaking, and even to our thoughts. as in life he makes himself felt who not only Quiller-Couch said: “Gentlemen, let us others a lively and discriminating love of at first, it’s hard to continue on any journey calls a spade a spade but has the pluck to keep our language noble: for we still have English literature,” states Quiller-Couch’s if you’re unaware of your destination. If Value Honest Over Embellished double spades and re-double.” heroes to commemorate!” TRUTH AND TRADITION memorial in Truro Cathedral, Cornwall, you don’t know where you are heading to Communication He also emphasizes the connection be- in Southwest England. and why, you’ll soon lose faith. Effective communication, in writing or tween a man’s character and the way he To read “On the Art of Writing” by Sir Quiller-Couch’s lectures in the book “On speech, is succinct and conveyed in ear- communicates. “If your language be Jargon, Arthur Quiller-Couch, visit Gutenberg.org the Art of Writing” certainly evoke that Practice Discernment sentiment. He lectures on the lineage of In the book, Quiller-Couch invites his stu- English literature, the importance of verse dents to question everything they read, and prose, and the literary greats from the and he invites them to learn only what fits Greeks to Milton, and more. Greek, Latin, into certain rigorous criteria. “We should and English literary quotes in his lectures lay our minds open to what he wishes to all extol English literature’s tradition. tell, and if what he has to tell be noble and What I found were not only gems for great high and beautiful, we should surrender writing but, as with all great literature, I and let soak our minds in it.” also found some guidelines for good living. In one of his last lectures he reiterates this This makes sense when you read Quiller- point, but on a different matter, to question Couch’s description of great literature: his teachings: “Do not presume me to be “They are great because they are alive, right on this. Rather, if you will, presume and traffic not with cold celestial certain- me to be wrong until the evidence is laid ties, but with men’s hopes, aspirations, out for your judgement.” doubts, loves, hates, breakings of the heart; Quiller-Couch valued this commonsense Happy Holidays the glory and vanity of human endeavour, approach—over any certification or award the transience of beauty, the capricious of knowledge—crediting it with shaping uncertain lease on which you and I hold a man whose judgment could be trusted. Fill Your Season with The Magic of Shen Yun life, the dark coast to which we inevita- bly steer; all that amuses or vexes, all that Edit Yourself It’s a wonderful collection of gifts that everyone will love. Shop gladdens, saddens, maddens us men and Contemplation is key. If you want to ac- women on this brief and mutable traject curately convey your thought “upon the now for our newest arrivals brimming with inspiration straight out which yet must be home for a while.” wax of other men’s minds,” Quiller-Couch of Shen Yun’s performances! Great literature seems to be the lifeblood suggests to his writing students: “You must of humanity. Here are some of the life les- first be your own reader, chiseling out the sons from Quiller-Couch’s lectures. thought definitely for yourself.” He also said in an earlier lecture: “The To Grow, Honor Your Ancestral Peers more clearly you write the more clearly “‘Antiquam exquirite matrem.’ Seek back you will understand yourself.” to the ancient mother; always it has recre- When you are convinced, your commu- Ying and Yang by Sandra Kuck ated itself, has kept itself pure and strong, nication will naturally be convincing. This
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If what he has to tell be noble and high and beautiful, we should
Original artworks, canvas wraps, surrender and and prints of Award-winning oil let soak our paintings now available at minds in it. Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch, InspiredOriginal.Org/Store writer
Sir Arthur Quiller-Couch’s memorial in Truro Cathedral, England. B44 | ARTS & CULTURE TUESDAY, DECEMBERWeek 29,53, 2020 TUESDAY,Week 53, 2020DECEMBER 29, 2020 ARTS & CULTURE |B5 5
PUBLIC DOMAIN EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES
The lyrics we all sing at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve. The original letter featuring the lyrics of “Auld Lang Syne” by Scottish poet Robert Burns at the Morgan Library & Museum in New York on Dec. 9, 2011. MAKSIM SOKOLOV/CC BY-SA 4.0 HULTON ARCHIVE/GETTY IMAGES
New Year’s has long been a time for reflection and renewal. “New Year’s Eve,” circa 1876, by Charles Henry Granger.
TRADITIONAL CULTURE Set yourself a concrete goal such as reading the 11-volume set of Will and Ariel Durant’s “The Story of Civilization. Finding Light in the New Year Let’s think of some New Year’s Say no to a very dark winter resolutions to help us keep our culture and our traditions alive and well.
HULTON ARCHIVE/GETTY IMAGES PUBLIC DOMAIN Continued from Page 1 motivated, and trying something new. In the list above, we notice no specific Perhaps appropriately, 2020 was the Chi- measures, only generalities. Even when we nese year of the rat. resolve to lose weight, unless we set up a program of tactics and deadlines, odds are Modern Traditions that come December, we’ll still be carrying We associate New Year’s Eve with celebra- those extra pounds we’d hoped to shed. tions. Old Man Time departs, and a baby Though I’ve made numerous New Year’s serves as representative of the new year. resolutions, I only recollect keeping two of We frequently mark this change in the them. The first was four years ago, when I calendar with parties, champagne, fire- resolved to read Will and Ariel Durant’s works—brought to us by the Chinese—and massive 11-volume “The Story of Civiliza- various other traditions. Many prepare tion.” I spent half an hour or so nearly every special meals to welcome the new year. day with the Durants, and finished the last Here in the South, for example, some fami- volume in early December. Time to revive an old tradition: family singing. Circa 1955, American television show host Ralph lies still eat black-eyed peas (I’m not a fan) This past New Year’s, I undertook to write Edwards and his family sing songs around a piano in their home. and collard greens on New Year’s Day for letters to two of my grandkids every week good luck. and take some treats to the employees of “Brandenburg Concertos,” or turn the The Gifts of 2020 In the past, crowds have gathered in Times my favorite coffee shop and the public li- pages of a book on art from the library, or During this time of pandemic, masks, and Square to watch the “ball drop” on New brary once a month. These vows I have kept read a chapter from George Eliot’s “Middle- “safe distancing,” many of us have grown Year’s Eve, but this January 1, for the first as well. march.” closer to family, friends, and neighbors. time in 114 years, that event will be virtual Both resolutions were very specific in na- Such excursions not only lift us out of our When a lockdown keeps us from a Thanks- because of the pandemic. Hopefully, the ture and intent, with a schedule attached to present but also bring us into the palace of giving dinner or a New Year’s party, we re- traditional New Year’s kiss at midnight will them. Had I simply resolved, “Be nice to the the true and the beautiful. alize more than ever how precious others still be delivered in person, and those who people at the coffee shop,” nothing would are to us. Those of us who live alone are gather together will sing “Auld Lang Syne.” have come from such a broad promise. ‘For Auld Lang Syne’ especially cognizant of the importance of But though the pandemic may cancel So in addition to losing weight or working Traditionally, we sing these words—they relationships. some of our parties and shared meals, one out, let’s think of some New Year’s resolu- mean “for the sake of old times”—on New The old year has toughened us, readied New Year’s tradition will remain unaffected tions to help us keep our culture and our Year’s Eve. us to confront the trials ahead—warriors by the virus, and it deserves a special place traditions alive and well. As we ring in 2021, we should keep “the ready to fight. I’ve never particularly cared of honor in this year of turmoil and fear. old times” of the past year in mind. Almost for the aphorism “What does not kill us Resolutions for Cultural Revival all of us have suffered the bruises and abra- makes us stronger,” but for America’s sake The New Year’s Resolution We could gather our friends, neighbors, sions delivered by 2020. Many have lost I’m hoping it is true. The ancient Babylonians, the Romans, and family members together once a their jobs and businesses, and some lost Let’s take what we have learned and move and the early Christians are just some of month or even once a week for an Ameri- loved ones to the virus. Most of us would forward with stout hearts to meet our new the people who, when the new year rolled can songfest. We can easily find online the agree, I suspect, that our nation has under- challenges. around, resolved to lead better lives. lyrics for “God Bless America,” “America,” gone a battering unlike any we have seen Happy New Year to all! Millions of Americans do the same. In “10 and scores of other pieces celebrating our in our lifetimes. Top New Year’s Resolutions for Success and nation. These get-togethers would build To quote an old American folk song, most Jeff Minick has four children and a Circa 1900, Baby New Happiness in 2020,” Peter Economy tells us camaraderie, help us recollect who we are, older books at sites like bartleby.com. For Let’s introduce young of us hope “Oh, hard times, come again growing platoon of grandchildren. For Year flies above the globe, that about 60 percent of us will make a New and bring some joy into our world. a real literary shot of patriotism, read Ed- readers to some no more.” 20 years, he taught history, literature, wishing holiday greetings Year’s resolution, though only about 8 per- We can read old books. To paraphrase ward Everett Hale’s “The Man Without a American classics. Unfortunately, hard times are likely to and Latin to seminars of homeschool- on a New Year’s postcard. cent will actually stick to that vow. Economy C.S. Lewis, try to read an old book after you Country.” “Tom Sawyer Fishing,” come again in this new year, but here’s the ing students in Asheville, N.C. He is the used the artificial intelligence of “Polly” to read a new one. Just as importantly, we can We can learn more about some art that is the frontispiece of the good news: Our months of suffering have author of two novels, “Amanda Bell” and come up with a list of probable 2021 reso- introduce young readers to American clas- unfamiliar to us, deepening our apprecia- first edition (1876) of prepared us for them. This time we won’t “Dust On Their Wings,” and two works of lutions. Most of these vows are familiar: sics like “Tom Sawyer,” “The Little House” tion for the works of Mozart, the paintings “The Adventures of Tom be taken by surprise. non-fiction, “Learning As I Go” and “Mov- Sawyer” by Mark Twain. work out at the gym, get into shape, lose series, and “To Kill a Mockingbird,” which of El Greco, or the novels of James Feni- Library of Congress In addition, our trials have also brought ies Make The Man.” Today, he lives and weight, and upgrade our technology. Others was just banned in a California school sys- more Cooper. We might set aside even just Prints and Photographs us some treasures, if we have the eyes to see writes in Front Royal, Va. See JeffMinick. include becoming a better person, staying tem. Take the gang to the library or find a small part of the day to listen to Bach’s Division. them and the memory to recollect them. com to follow his blog. B66 | ARTS & CULTURE TUESDAY, DECEMBERWeek 29,53, 2020 TUESDAY,Week 53, 2020 DECEMBER 29, 2020 ARTS & CULTURE | B77
LIZ LAUREN MICHAEL BROSILOW ‘Erin Brockovich’ Rated Mark Jackson grew up in Spring Val- R ley, N.Y., where he attended a Waldorf D i r e c t o r FILM INSIGHTS school. At Williams College, his pro- Steven Soderbergh Running Time 2 hours, 11 minutes fessors all suggested he write pro- Starring fessionally. He acted professionally Julia Roberts, Albert Finney, Release Date WITH MARK for 20 years instead. Now he Aaron Eckhart, March 17, 2000 writes professionally about Marg Helgenberger, JACKSON acting. In the movies. Peter Coyote
POPCORN AND INSPIRATION A Reminder of Massive Coverups
ALL PHOTOS COURTESY OF UNIVERSAL PICTURES MARK JACKSON
“Spotlight” and “Erin Brockovich” are both (Left) Larry Yando has been a fixture as Scrooge at the Goodman for more than a decade. (Right) “It’s a Wonderful Life” of 2018 with (L–R) Ian Paul Custer, Brandon Dahlquist, and John Mohrlein. true stories, respectively, of 1) journalists investigating rampant pedophile priest corruption in the Catholic Church, and ONLINE-THEATER REVIEW 2) a twice-divorced former Miss Wichita (a mother of three with a photographic memory) investigating rampant corrup- tion at a power plant. A Virtual Christmas, Chicago Style Much like 2010’s “Gasland” (environ- mental poisoning by fracking) and 2019’s “Dark Waters” (environmental poisoning BETTY MOHR ‘A Christmas Carol’ ‘A Christmas Carol’ for audio consumption—and not just for by DuPont’s Teflon), “Erin Brockovich” is In its attempt to bring a measure of holiday those in Chicago! It started Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. about Pacific Gas and Electric’s ground- ince the debut of Charles Dick- warmth to the season, the Goodman The- An Audio Play by and will be available for free, streaming at water poisoning via the chemical com- Goodman Theatre ens’s “A Christmas Carol” at the atre is providing its annual presentation of GoodmanTheatre.org/Carol and on de- pound hexavalent chromium. As in the Goodman Theatre in 1978, “Bah “A Christmas Carol” for Chicago audiences GoodmanTheatre.org mand through Dec. 31. other films, cancer abounds. Humbug!” has been Ebenezer in a free audio-streaming version. Free Dec.1–Dec. 31 America now appears to be in a state of Scrooge’s cry of rebellion against Although the previous productions of the ‘It’s a Wonderful Life’ complacent, pessimistic fatalism regarding Sholiday cheer. That expression of antipathy show featured music, dance, and terrific While the Goodman’s “A Christmas Carol” the lies generated by corporate greed that against festive joy has been the hallmark of special effects, the audio play, of necessity, has become the longest-running show of the physically poison our environment. We Scrooge’s misanthropy for more than four leaves out the magical wizardry to focus on holiday season in Chicago, the runner-up is should all be whistleblowers in this day (Above) Lawyer Ed decades at that distinguished Chicago the- the meaning of the holiday. It is still faith- American Blues Theater’s “It’s a Wonderful and age. Masry (Albert Finney) ater. But never was the exclamation “Bah ful to the uplifting Dickens story in which Life Live in Chicago!” and his assistant Erin Humbug!” more fitting than it is this year. Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by the ghost True to the Capra film, it centers on George Hidden (and Not So Hidden) Talents Brockovich (Julia Rob- Indeed, 2020 has been a year of sick- of his business partner Jacob Marley and Bailey whose attempted suicide is stopped by In the early 1990s, Erin Brockovich goes job erts), in “Erin Brockovich.” ness, deprivation, and heartache, which then the spirits of Christmas Past, Present, Clarence, his guardian angel. Then, through hunting. With two ex-husbands and three (Right) Erin Brockovich is why we need a little cheer, some and Future. Clarence’s intervention, George learns how mouths to feed, she’s got no skills or educa- (Julia Roberts), George comfort, and a large dose of op- The ghosts take Scrooge on different the lives of everyone in Bedford Falls tion. She is, however, next-level resource- (Aaron Eckhart), and Beth timism more than ever before, These two a spectacular adventure in would have been if he had not been born. ful, smart as a whip, with what appears Brockovich (Emily Marks). (Far right) Erin Brocko- and which we hope to find in most long-lasting which the elderly miser comes The American Blues ensemble has treated to be a photographic memory, uncanny two streaming events. The to realize that there is noth- Chicago audiences to a live 1940s radio people skills, and certain, er, assets, shall vich (Julia Roberts) productions have fishing a poisoned frog duo presentations are being become standard ing humbug about kindness, broadcast for 18 years, and the virtual pro- we say, that—by wearing anything with ‘It’s a Wonderful out of a chemical plant’s offered to audiences looking holiday fare in compassion, and helping duction will re-create the town of Bedford a plunging neckline—allow her to apply holding pond. sweaters and untie knots, she randomly And just like Erin is Masry’s secret weap- for something that can inspire one’s fellow man. Life Live in Chicago!’ Falls with sound effects and an original feminine wiles to a degree best described uncovers a paper trail leading to the sleepy, on, it’s this quality that is also director Chicago. them, lift their spirits, and of- Furthermore, the streaming American Blues Theater score of holiday carols. The virtual produc- as “weaponized.” dusty town of Hinkley, California. There, Soderbergh’s secret weapon; we delight fer them a way to connect with production stars Larry Yando, livestream on Zoom tion is being presented live from the actors’ Erin also embodies the phrase, “Rude, many people have many forms of rashes in the fact that Erin has no Harvard law family and friends—if only through who has played Scrooge for 13 sea- Tickets homes, complete with individual sets, cos- crude, and socially unacceptable.” She’s and cancers, not to mention deformed degree but out-lawyers the lawyers like a virtual event. sons. While a variety of actors have played 773.654.3103 or tumes, and sound effects. got a hair-trigger temper, a sizable chip barnyard animals. “The Rock” roundly trouncing competitors The two most long-lasting productions the part of Scrooge over four decades, Yan- AmericanBluesTheater.com Directed by Gwendolyn Whiteside with on her shoulder, and is jam-packed with Why? It’s the chromium-6-contaminated while calling them “Jabronis” and telling that have become standard holiday fare do’s has become the most popular portray- Closes music direction by Michael Mahler, the what Mad Magazine used to call “Snappy runoff that’s seeped into the groundwater them to drink tall glasses of “shut-up juice.” in Chicago are the Goodman Theatre’s al. That’s because he delivers a compelling Through Jan. 2, 2021 cast includes Brandon Dahlquist as George Answers to Stupid Questions.” She suffers for years because the nearby Pacific Gas “Erin Brockovich” makes you feel like one production of “A Christmas Carol” and insight into Scrooge’s lonely and unhappy Bailey, John Mohrlein as Clarence/Mr. Pot- neither fools nor haughty attitudes gladly, and Electric power plant was too cheap person really can make a difference. (It is, the American Blues Theater’s theatrical childhood and his aspiration for money to ter, and Audrey Billings as Mary Bailey. so if you’re a lawyer talking down to her, to use chemical basin liners in its hold- after all, based on a true story.) adaptation of the Frank Capra film “It’s avoid poverty. you’ll elicit the following response: “That’s ing ponds. a Wonderful Life.” While Dickens’s tale, Instead of a one-dimensional caricature, As an arts writer and movie/theater/op- all you’ve got lady—two wrong feet in (ex- As I said about “Spotlight,” director Tom first published in 1843, was an immediate Yando portrays Scrooge as a man trans- era critic, Betty Mohr has been published pletive omitted) ugly shoes.” McCarthy demonstrated “that the story success, the 1946 Capra movie received formed, a man who regrets the loss of his in the Chicago Sun-Times, The Chicago But she’s charming! Because she’s played is all about how you tell it. Because legal We should all be poor reviews and was not an immediate youth and who develops a deep emotional Tribune, The Australian, The Dramatist, by Julia Roberts at the pinnacle of her mega- document scanning, periodical perus- box-office hit. It didn’t become a beloved connection with his humanity. the SouthtownStar, the Post Tribune, watt stardom trajectory (“Erin Brockovich” ing, legalese-spewing, along with reporter whistleblowers in this Christmas classic until 1976, when it was Voiced by an all-Chicago cast of 19, the The Herald News, The Globe and Mail in landed her an Oscar) and thus she bad- meetings, reporters sitting in stuffy offices day and age. first released on television. drama has been re-created especially Toronto, and other publications. mouths/sweet-talks her way into lawyer waiting for interviews, and so on, are all (Below) The real Erin Ed Masry’s (Albert Finney) Southern Cali- Brockovich.(Below) The real Erin otherwise guaranteed yawn-fests.” fornia law firm as an assistant, ignoring all Brockovich. “Erin Brockovich” naturally contains Ultimately, though, the true secret weap- his requests to dress more appropriately for (Below left) Eight-month-Eight- many of the same ingredients, but director on of “Erin Brockovich” the movie is Julia the office. Eventually, he’s even putting a oldmonth Beth old Brockovich Beth Brocko (Emily- Steven Soderbergh, like McCarthy before Roberts. She presents us with this tasty en- second mortgage on his house to be able Marks)vich (Emily and Marks)mom Erin and him, finds ways to keep the tension turned chilada of a character: Wrapped in the tor- ONLINE-THEATER REVIEW include James Konicek, who plays to afford the massive lawsuit she talks him Brockovich.mom Erin Brockovich. up throughout, in order to make such dull tilla of someone too clueless to comprehend Mr. Darling and Captain Hook, and into taking on. (Bottom) Lawyer EdEd ingredients very tasty. her trashy, job-interview-destroying ward- who almost goes overboard in his Masry (Albert Finney, R) robe, not to mention her salty sailor talk on hilarious depiction of the scoun- No Coincidences addresses a meeting of Pit Bull the witness stand, is the delicious filling of a Streaming ‘Peter Pan, A Musical Adventure’ plaintiffs regarding what drel pirate who lost his hand to a She may be a lowly assistant, but she’s got plaintiffs regarding what Brockovich’s people skills and common woman who sees medical records in a real they can expect in termsterms crocodile. When he sings “When a world-class talent for sleuthing and picks of medical compensa- touch are generated from a deep well of estate transaction, hunts down a chemis- Chicago Shakespeare Theater's delightful hit I Kill Peter Pan,” he demonstrates up on details others might miss. She no- of medical compensation empathy, and the situation also triggers her try professor to learn about why three ions fromtion from the Pacific the Pacific Gas andGas LIZ LAUREN how good being bad can be. tices when things don’t add up, and having mothering protectiveness. Even male lions of chromium are benign and six are toxic, Electricand Electric Company Company in “Erin in BETTY MOHR “Peter Pan, A Musical Adventure.” Elizabeth Stenholt does a fine job the type of curiosity that tends to unravel know not to mess with a female guarding and can memorize over 600 client phone Brockovich.”“Erin Brockovich.” Indeed, the Chicago theater com- portraying a nurturing Wendy, who cubs, and so boss Ed Masry comes up short numbers like it’s nothing. She has the same “Peter Pan” first took center stage pany presented the show in 2018, mothers Peter and his Lost Boys trying to stem the tide of Erin’s crusade for effect, when entering a verbal confronta- in a London theater two days after which was so well-received by (Colin Lawrence, Christina Hall, the people of Hinkley, and crusades along tion, as Bruce Lee ripping off his tank top, Christmas in 1904. In advance of critics and garnered such box of- Travis Austin Wright, Michael Ku- with her, eventually suing PG&E to the crab-walking around his opponent, and its opening, word got out that the fice receipts that the company is rowski, Jonathan Butler-Duplessis, tune of $333 million in compensatory and doing his scary caterwauling battle cry. play by Scottish author J.M. Barrie offering the musical again in a free, and John Marshall Jr.). punitive damages to local people injured (1860–1937) was about a boy who streaming version available to all at Cameron Goode and Carter Graf by the company’s chemical negligence. Harley Guy didn’t want to grow up, who could ChicagoShakes.com from Dec. 19 as her younger brothers, John and Masry refers to Erin as a “secret weapon.” Aaron Eckhart plays George, the Fu-Man- fly, and who had adventures in a through Jan. 1, 2021. Michael, deliver nice turns. Ren- What else would you call a diamond in the chu-sporting biker who lives next door and place called Neverland. The gossip gin Altay offers a poignant finale rough made up of pit-bull determination, eschews his bike to become Erin’s baby- was that the unusual play would be A New Version as the grown-up Wendy, and then a beautiful but trashy appearance, and a sitter, beck-and-call handyman, glorified a bust, so everyone was surprised “Peter Pan, A Musical Adventure” there is the Darling family’s huge potty mouth that hides a world-class brain? personal assistant, and, oh yeah, lover. It’s when it turned out to be a big hit. is a new version of Barrie’s story nursemaid dog, Nana. Played by the movie’s weak point. No self-respecting It wasn’t just a huge success in its by Elliot Davis based on a book by Butler-DuPlessis, in costume de- biker would deal with that amount of stress own time, though; Peter has never Willis Hall, with a musical score signer Theresa Ham’s shaggy dog and nagging with his bike sitting right grown old. Indeed, he seems to be by George Stiles and lyrics by An- costume, he steals the show. there. Then again, maybe he’d make an living forever having been immor- thony Drewe. Directed and cho- Last but not least, there is Tinker exception for a Miss Wichita. And maybe Peter Pan (Johnny Shea, top) leads the Darling siblings, (L–R) Carter Graf, talized in Disney’s animated movie reographed by Amber Mak, this Bell, the fairy created by Greg Hof- he did, since this is based on a true story. Elizabeth Stenholt, and Cameron Goode, on a high-flying adventure to (1953) and the film “Finding Never- captivating production brings out Neverland in “Peter Pan, A Musical Adventure,” streaming free on-demand mann’s lighting effects. When Peter That said, Eckhart and Roberts have good land” (2004) starring Johnny Depp; all the qualities of “Peter Pan” that for the holiday season. asks the audience to bring Tinker chemistry, and he’s believable as a guy who in Broadway musicals, such as the have made it popular through the Bell back to life by clapping, the- loves kids. And probably the best part of the production starring Mary Martin ages. But the show is not just for ‘Peter Pan, A Furthermore, it is unlike previous atergoers in the 2018 production whole film is when Erin schleps the unsus- (1954), and revivals with Sandy kids; it’s for adults as well. Musical Adventure’ stagings in which Peter was por- that I saw applauded wildly. Surely, pecting George with her to deliver the good Duncan (1979) and gymnast Cathy That’s not to say that there isn’t trayed by female performers. This viewers watching the streamline news to a particularly forlorn client (Marg Rigby (1990). In modern culture, it a lot of magic in the production. Chicago Shakespeare time, Peter is played by a young repeat of the show will do the same. Helgenberger). The grin on George’s face Theater, Chicago became the name of a psychologi- Patrons will marvel at the lush male actor, which gives a greater when he sees the look of disbelief—that her cal syndrome, and even a moniker Victorian-era nursery setting by Information authenticity to the work. And the As an arts writer and movie/the- family will receive a vast sum of money—is 312-595-5600 or for a major peanut butter brand. Jeff Kmiec, thrill at Mike Tutaj’s ChicagoShakes.com actor playing Peter, Johnny Shea, ater/opera critic, Betty Mohr has worth everything. Since Peter Pan has become such projections of a London church with an impish grin and athletic been published in the Chicago “Erin Brockovich” won four additional an icon, it’s understandable that the steeple, a green-leafed island, and Running Time prowess, is amazing. When he flies Sun-Times, The Chicago Tribune, 1 hour, 20 minutes Oscar nominations for Best Picture, Best Chicago Shakespeare Theater— a pirate ship, and be fascinated by through the window of the Darling The Australian, The Dramatist, Director, Best Supporting Actor (Finney), which has a penchant not just for the flying effects of the ZFX Flying Closes nursery, it’s jaw-dropping exhila- the SouthtownStar, the Post Tri- and Best Original Screenplay. Jan. 1, 2021 mounting Shakespeare’s work but Effects. Indeed the imagination of rating. bune, The Herald News, The Globe Nobody likes corruption, except for those also for children’s classics—would the production re-creates a breath- Other performers who contrib- and Mail in Toronto, and other on the take, and this film reminds us of the have found it irresistible to produce taking fantasy world. ute to the enchantment of the show publications. chutzpah required to bring it to light. 8 | ARTSB8 & CULTURE WEDNESDAY,Week 53, DECEMBER 2020 30, 2020 WEDNESDAY,Week 53, 2020 DECEMBER 30, 2020 ARTS & CULTURE |B9 9
ALL PHOTOS IN PUBLIC DOMAIN US TRUTH TELLERS For more arts and culture articles, visit TheEpochTimes. Zinka Milanov: com The Truth of the Soul The most beautiful voice in the world
PUBLIC DOMAIN raymond BEEglE
How many centuries did it take to change a sigh and a groan into a song? We will leave that question to the anthropologists and musi- cologists, and focus our attention on the 19th century—the century of bel canto, beautiful singing— when the operas and songs of our great composers reached their full bloom and plumbed the depths of the human heart. Ultimately, no one can prove that something is beautiful, but when many people of discern- Artists and musicians descend to earth while a ment say that Croatian soprano lone figure ascends to heaven. Zinka Milanov (1906–1989) has, says the New York Times, “the most beautiful voice in the world,” Svantovit, having four one is prompted to take note. Time Magazine once wrote “as for sheer heads, watches the scene beauty of voice, Zinka Milanov unfold from above but cannot be rivaled.” Another New York Times review reported “it was also sees the future of the one of those eventful nights when Slavic people: They will be Milanov was at her best, seem- ingly bewildered by the beauty of invaded by outsiders and her own voice.” Certainly, the emotional power lose everything. of Milanov’s voice was over- “The Slav Epic: No. 2: The Celebration of Svantovit: When Gods Are at War, Salvation Is in the Art,” 1912, by Alphonse Maria Mucha. Egg tempera and oil on canvas, 20 feet by 26.5 feet. whelming. The sound appeared to National Gallery in Prague. Divinely Inspired Arts come from no particular place, but Mucha shows us a grand scene. The Slavic simply became present, filling ev- Reaching Within: What traditional art offers the heart people celebrate their god Svantovit in the ery contour and crevice of the hall. hopes of receiving a great harvest for the next It has been described as a golden year and protection from outside invaders. trumpet, a sapphire, a dark bell, Svantovit, having four heads, watches the but these descriptions say little. scene unfold from above but also sees the Words can tell us almost nothing Salvation Through Art: future of the Slavic people: They will be about vocal beauty. invaded by outsiders and lose everything. In the Renaissance, treatises Svantovit, however, does not intervene. were written on vocal quality and Zinka Milanov as the title role in “Tosca,” photographed by Alfredo Valente in 1946. Instead, he points to those who worship vocal technique, but they do us him, and some figures, as if following his little good and leave us wonder- hold where there were no books, can certainly say something about ‘The Celebration of Svantovit’ command, play musical instruments as ing: How did they really sound? no pictures on the wall, and my its impact on the listener. One feels they descend from above. At the very right, We’ll never know, but due to mother had the radio tuned to the added to, enriched, nourished. Eric BEss The Celebration of Svantovit a figure seems to me to ascend as if reborn. recording technology, we have endless march of the hit parade. One feels that something that lies The paintings of “The Slav Epic” are nation- What might all of this mean? Why does over a century of great singing That was all I knew of music. beyond what can be said or sung here are historical moments alist and spiritual in nature. They depict Svantovit not raise his sword to protect the documented in ever increasing Then one day, when I was 10 or has been hinted at, and that we when we turn our backs on the the history of the Slavs in terms of folklore, Slavs? Why does he instead point his sword exactness. It bears witness to the 11, a neighbor said to me, “Ray- have been told the truth. divine and suffer for it, but the paganism, and Christianity. I will focus on below? Why do the descending figures play bel canto tradition, its style, and mond! Come here and listen to After a Milanov performance, traditional arts can always serve the second painting of the series, titled “The musical instruments, and why does the expansive temperament. something!” It was Zinka Milanov there was a general sense of con- as a link back. Slav Epic: No. 2: The Celebration of Svanto- young man sculpt? Why does the lone fig- Early cylinder recordings from singing “Pace mio Dio.” I had nection with the others who had TCzech artist Alphonse Mucha (1860– vit: When Gods Are at War, Salvation Is in ure to the right appear to ascend? the 1890s make possible a glimpse never heard an operatic voice heard what we had heard. As we 1939), who worked before and after the in- the Art.” Mucha believed that art served only a of all this, and as technology im- before. My reaction? Again, one walked out of the theater and into dependence of Czechoslovakia in 1918, be- Mucha created a large and elaborate spiritual purpose. The title of this painting proved, more vocal qualities were can’t begin to use words; they are the streets, we seem to have been lieved that art serves a spiritual purpose. scene, which depicts several things. In the suggests that salvation is in art when the revealed. far less expressive than music, but changed, become gentler, more Mucha spent much of his early life in lower half of the composition, people are gods are at war. The Slavs are fated to be I must try to tell you. It was like respectful of each other because France creating commercial art. He be- shown celebrating the god Svantovit at the invaded, which is a reflection of the ensuing looking through a telescope for the of our shared experience. There came very popular for the style of this work, Arkona temple in Rügen. Rügen, located off battle between Thor and Svantovit. Is it that first time and sensing the vast uni- was an unspoken understanding, a style that became known as Art Nouveau. the Pomeranian coast in the Baltic Sea, is Svantovit, as a god who sees and knows all, It has been described verse one only guessed at before: fleeting though it might be, that But Mucha wasn’t interested in creating Germany’s largest island. has the wisdom to accept fate, and this is its grandeur, its infinitude, and be- the needs of the human heart are this type of art. He was more interested in Svantovit was the most powerful, all-see- why he doesn’t raise his sword in defiance? as a golden trumpet, a hind that, a meaning and purpose the same in each of us, that each creating national and spiritual art. ing, all-knowing god of the Slavs. Svantovit Instead, he gives to those who celebrate we feel but cannot explain. life is as precious and sacred as According to AlfonsMucha.org, Mucha was often depicted with four heads, through him another way to salvation: art. Those sapphire, a dark bell, Of course, one simply reacts to we know our own to be. Only art “declared that art existed only to commu- which he could see and prophetically know who descend from heaven bring with but these descriptions music at first. Only later do we has such power to carry this great nicate a spiritual message, and nothing the whole world. He also carried a horn rep- them the heavenly arts, both musical and examine the causes underlying message, and only art—not laws, more; hence his frustration at the fame he resenting abundance, a bow representing visual. Is it that these artforms, when they say little. Words can the reaction. Only later, therefore, not governments—will ultimately gained through commercial art, when he protection, and rode a white horse. celebrate the heavens from which they de- tell us almost nothing did I begin to become aware of bring the peace that we, for centu- wanted always to concentrate on more lofty Once a year, during the harvest period, scend, offer a form of salvation? some important things. First of ries, have longed for. projects that would ennoble art and his the Slavs would celebrate and worship Even if they are not a direct form of salva- about vocal beauty. all, this voice had a wider range of birthplace.” Svantovit. Mucha depicted this celebra- tion, is it possible that these artforms can pitches than those of popular sing- It wasn’t long, however, before Mucha got tion. People are shown dressed in white, point us back to that which can save us? ers; it had an immense dynamic Raymond Beegle has performed as his wish: He returned home to the Czech dancing, eating, and celebrating. Can they stir within us those things that The male voice, because of its range, great emotional power, and a collaborative pianist in the major Republic to begin working on a series of make us get closer to the divine? lower overtones, was the first to a profusion of color. concert halls of the United States, 20 paintings, whereby he celebrated the The Prophecy And is this why the lone figure to the right become available to us. Mattia Bat- Then, I considered the words. Europe, and South America; has divine and the origins of his homeland. In the top half of the composition, however, ascends? It’s interesting that below at the tistini (1856–1928), who sang with “God, give me peace!” she sang. written for The Opera Quarterly, This large-scale project was initially ridi- a battle is about to begin. This battle seems celebration, there’s a sea of people who are Verdi, recorded late in his life, giv- So, the spiritual aspect of great Classical Voice, Fanfare Magazine, culed. Many thought it was an outdated to predict the future of the Slavs after they all dancing, celebrating, and worshiping. ing us a sense of the style and vast music became apparent to me. Classic Record Collector (UK), and and obsolete endeavor. Also, the rise of are invaded by the Germanic tribes. They are participating in group rituals. Yet dramatic scope of both singer and God was present, the higher world, the New York Observer. Beegle has this lone figure ascends by himself. Is it composer. As well, when one hears a world of nobility and wonder, the served on the faculty of The State communism didn’t help the popularity The Germanic god, Thor, is at the top left (Above) A man praying and, to pears to pray to Svantovit, who can be seen of traditional and spiritual artworks like of the composition and is leading his war- his right, three in bondage. at the very top of the composition with two the case that the heavenly inspired arts Alessandro Moreschi (1858–1922) perplexities and pain of life trans- University of New York–Stony Mucha’s “Slav Epic,” which were out-of-step riors and dogs to attack the Slavic god. In heads holding a horn behind the white horse. invigorate a personal, individual relation- sing “Ideale” or “Ave Maria,” one formed into timeless beauty. Brook, The Music Academy of the with the Communist Party’s requirements the same group of figures, a man is shown (Bottom left) Svantovit, with Praying to Svantovit doesn’t seem to help, ship with the divine, a relationship that hears the highly charged emotional Milanov’s great singing did not West, and The American Institute for the artistic style of “social realism.” defending both himself and another, who is two of his four heads shown, however. Upon scanning right, one sees can result in the ascension of one’s soul? parameters of that time. demand an explanation. It de- of Musical Studies in Graz, Austria. After being arrested and questioned by dressed in white, with his shield and sword. holding a blue sword point- the next three figures shown with their The arts are the very thing on which a It was not until the 1940s, how- manded only my attention. “Listen He has taught in the chamber music the Gestapo, Mucha died of pneumonia in To the right of Thor’s dogs are six more fig- ing downward. Both he and a wrists bound as if they have been captured culture is built and propagated. The arts ever, that recordings of the female with all your soul,” the great Rus- division of The Manhattan School dead man ride the god’s white are like a mirror we hold up to ourselves. voice began to resemble anything sian poet Apollon Maikov wrote. of Music for the past 28 years. 1939 at the age of 78. ures. The first figure closest to the dogs ap- horse. and enslaved. The figure immediately to the right of them is dead, riding on Svan- What are we currently saying about our- like what one hears in live concert. These days we are unused to lis- (Bottom right) Thor, his dogs tovit’s horse. selves with our arts? What type of culture are It is possible to read between the tening carefully, let alone listening and warriors, and a man we guilty of propagating? Is it possible that we, lines, so to speak, in the earlier with all our soul! However, it is the Mucha depicts Svantovit with a sword studio recordings defending both himself and made of blue light instead of a bow. This through our arts, can return to the divine? offerings of Elisabeth Rethberg only way, and it suffers no bound- another, who is dressed in sword symbolizes the god’s protection, but or Rosa Ponselle, but only in the aries of social class, intelligence, “Pace mio Dio” (“La Forza del Destino”) 1953 white. he does not hold it up to defend the people Art has an incredible ability to point to 1950s was there success in reflect- or education. It is there for us. “O Patria Mia” (“Aida”) 1953 from the threat of Thor. Instead, Svantovit what can’t be seen so that we may ask ing the true sound of the great I list below some recorded “D’amor sull’ali rosee” (“Il Trovatore”) 1952 points it down toward the people as if they “What does this mean for me and for every- sopranos. Kirsten Flagstad and moments of Milanov’s sublime are to protect themselves. one who sees it?” “How has it influenced the Zinka Milanov were among the artistry that have for half a century “Daleko m’e moj Split” (Croatian folk song) Near the horse’s head, three figures begin past and how might it influence the future?” first artists to have the opulence of moved me, filled me with wonder, 1941 to descend back down to those celebrating, “What does it suggest about the human ex- their singing put to disc and pre- and possibly made me a better “O Lovely Moon” (“Rusalka”) 1958 while one figure seems to ascend at the far perience?” These are some of the questions served for future generations. human being. Now that all music right of the composition. I explore in my series “Reaching Within: is available through numerous The three descending figures are play- What Traditional Art Offers the Heart.” Awakening to the Voice venues, I give only a title and date, live recordings ing musical instruments as they descend. Perhaps the reader might be and ask that you “listen with all Right below them are two figures: a young Eric Bess is a practicing representational artist interested in an autobiographi- your soul.” “Tosca” (London) 1957 man who carves an image of the god and and is a doctoral candidate at the Institute for cal aside at this point. I was born If one cannot describe great “Andrea Chénier” (Metropolitan Opera) 1957 a woman who watches over his shoulder. Doctoral Studies in the Visual Arts (IDSVA). into a lower-middle-class house- music, or a great performance, one “Rigoletto” (Madison Square Garden) 1944 10B8 | ARTS & CULTURE TUESDAY, DECEMBERWeek 53,29, 2020
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POPCORN AND INSPIRATION A Modern Classic That Celebrates Our Common Humanity German Lt. Horstmayer (Daniel Brühl, L) and French Lt. Audebert find a good deal to bond over despite their fighting on opposite sides during World War I, in “Joyeux Noël.”
IAN KANE Horstmayer (Daniel Brühl) is eyeing his begin to sing along. In a dramatic scene, Christmas Eve that this film covers (but allied counterparts, Scotsman Lt. Gordon Nikolaus risks his life by walking, as he is not specifically based on), but now I’m hristmas is the time of year (yes, (Alex Ferns) and French Lt. Audebert (Guil- sings, into No Man’s Land, a space between inspired to. The metaphor of the book’s title even in 2020) when hearts are laume Canet), across a swath of the front the enemies’ lines, ghastly now with bodies alone fits perfectly with a time and place warmed with good cheer and lines called “No Man’s Land.” We also have from both sides lying unburied. where, at least for a little while, all of the kindness, and when the air fills German tenor Nikolaus Sprink (Benno Für- But instead of shooting his head off, the guns stopped firing and a divine presence with that giddy happiness at mann, with singing by Rolando Villazón) Allied and German soldiers rise up from graced a bloody, war-torn patch of land. Chearing children caroling and at the aro- and his beautiful Danish partner and lover, their trenches and leave their weapons I think that we can all learn something mas from our traditional Christmas meals. Anna Sorensen (Diane Kruger, with sing- behind. The men greet each other in a from the Christians who were present that But it can be a lonely time if you’re over- ing by Natalie Dessay), the pair who emerge moment of peace and transcendental har- night on both sides of the battle lines and seas. As someone who was in the military, I as a major catalyst for the peace to come. mony and togetherness. Since it is early in take a more hopeful perspective of unity can tell you that it can be tough being away In the days leading up to Christmas, the war, food and drink are plentiful, and heading into the New Year of 2021—one of from home during the holidays—especially Nikolaus, a private in the German Army the men break bread and enjoy libations healing and goodwill. Let’s start from the Christmas. Difficult as it was, I could never (and distinguished tenor), is ordered to together. obvious baseline: We are all Americans. have imagined celebrating the venerable perform for a group of German officers in However, while the truce is unfolding, With incredibly powerful imagery and holiday with our enemies. an occupied area far from the front lines. news of it quickly travels up the chain of acting performances, and easy to under- But that is just what happened on the There, he is reunited with Anna, a soprano command to the top brass of all three coun- stand yet profound messages, “Joyeux Western Front in World War I, as detailed in who has a considerable level of acclaim in tries concerned. At the command level, the Noël” is a rare cinematic achievement that, the 2005 film “Joyeux Noël” (“Merry Christ- her own right. truce is viewed as a threat to their objec- frankly, should be required viewing during mas”). During one cold Christmas Eve in Sprink returns to the front lines, this time tives and is considered an illegal ceasefire. the Christmas season. 1914, at scattered spots along the front line with Anna, who is more than happy to join What consequences will befall the soldiers? between the Allies and the Germans, sol- him in his efforts to soothe his comrades Will Nikolaus and Anna be able to handle Ian Kane is a filmmaker and author diers on both sides called a truce and laid through song. Their hope is that they can the repercussions or be viewed as traitors? based out of Los Angeles. To see more, down their arms to celebrate together in give some measure of serenity to the war- visit DreamFlightEnt.com a show of transcendental brotherly love. weary troops, if only for a short period of time. A Film That Transcends Telling this tale, which included man- True artists who know music has no Human Bounds ‘Joyeux Noël’ aging a massive cast of actors and back- bounds, Nikolaus and Anna proceed to Under the firm guidance of Carion, this ground extras while attempting to tap into serenade the soldiers on both sides of the film expertly depicts the compassion of the Director Christian Carion the magical energy of that specific place battle lines. To their surprise, their beauti- human spirit, as well as the dark forces that and time in history, would be a herculean fully melodic Christmas songs serve as a can encroach on it. This is not your typical Starring effort for anyone. Incredibly, French direc- sort of primer that ignites an overwhelming Hollywood fare, where everything is dis- Diane Kruger, Benno Fürmann, Guillaume Canet tor Christian Carion took on this monu- and spontaneous sense of goodwill among tilled down to either sappy sentimentality Running Time mental task; it was only his third film at that all of the combatants present—since the or gratuitous displays of violence (or both). 1 hour, 56 minutes time (he also directed the notable 2001 film Allies and Germans alike are familiar with It resists the usual war movie clichés and Rated “The Girl From Paris”—his first feature) and the age-old songs. delves deeper into the spiritual component PG-13 pulled it off deftly. First, the Scottish bagpipes begin to of humanity that we all share. Release Date The film is primarily told from the per- chime in. They are soon joined by the voic- I’ve never read Stanley Wientraub’s book Nov. 9, 2005 (France) spective of its five lead actors. German Lt. es of the soldiers from both sides as they “Silent Night,” which chronicled the special
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Original artworks, canvas wraps, art posters, and framed prints of Award-winninvg oil paintings now available for purchase at
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